Confronting and managing feelings of shame and guilt is a crucial part of healing from substance abuse. These emotions can be a potential relapse trigger, especially in the sensitive time of early recovery. Here’s how you can work through these feelings and stay accountable for your goals.

Understanding the Difference Between Shame and Guilt

While shame and guilt can arise from the same situations, there are distinctions between these two emotions.

• Guilt is feeling remorseful about your actions or behavior. For example, you might feel at fault for neglecting your responsibilities or hurting your loved ones during active addiction.
• Shame takes guilt to a deeper, more personal level by making you believe your inherent flaws mean you are unworthy of happiness or success.

The progression from guilt to shame can be swift and dangerous, undermining your self-worth and complicating the recovery process. Engaging in constant self-criticism and dwelling on your mistakes undermines your self-esteem and can make you more likely to relapse.

Strategies to Cope With Shame in Recovery

Processing complex emotions requires intentional strategies to prevent setbacks in your recovery.

• Acknowledgment and release: Recognize when guilt or shame surface. Allow yourself space to understand these feelings, then let them go to prevent them from becoming persistent obstacles.
• Take responsibility: Part of moving past guilt and shame involves owning your behavior. Admitting to your mistakes and understanding their impacts can pave the way for genuine remorse and corrective action.
• Make amends: Making amends is a fundamental part of 12-step programs. It involves seeking forgiveness from people you’ve hurt – including yourself – which can significantly aid in healing and self-growth.
• Seek support: Individual and group therapy can provide the guidance you need to process these feelings constructively. An evidence-based technique called cognitive behavioral therapy can effectively change the thought patterns that contribute to unconstructive feelings.

Finding a New Way Forward

Letting go of shame requires emotional labor – the work of accepting your mistakes and committing to personal growth. Shame confines and conceals, offering nothing constructive. Remember, your past does not define your worth or your potential.

At Serene Behavioral Health, we believe everyone has the inner resources to overcome their hurdles and build a hopeful, fulfilling future. Our mental health practitioners provide proven pathways to wellness with science-based therapies. Regardless of what brings you to our doors, you will find the personalized care you need to heal. Lifelong recovery is the primary objective of our programs, services and treatment plans. Our team is always here to answer your questions and verify your insurance coverage.